Children’s residential home at The Roundhouse, Wednesbury

“Committee: Planning Committee Date of Meeting 26 November 2025 Application Reference DC/25/70770 Application Description Proposed change of use from dwellinghouse (Class C3) to residential home for up to four children (under 18 years of age) (Class C2) and use of the existing lodge for one child (under 18 years of age) for a transition unit in preparation for independent living (Class C2).”

“The Application Site 5.1 The application property is situated at the end of a cul-de-sac within a residential area. The application site is a unique local landmark residential property which includes a moat, tennis court and windmill.”

“Planning permission was granted for the property back in 1990. Last year an application for a school on the site was submitted but subsequently was withdrawn, and the use of the site remains a dwelling. A full list of the planning history is provided below: DC/25338 Erection of dwelling house and double garage. (Amendments to approval DC/22143). Granted with Conditions…”

“30/07/1996 DC/24/70031 Proposed change of use of 4 bed dwelling (Class C3) and associated ancillary buildings to a school (Class F1(a)). Withdrawn…”

“The home will be registered with Ofsted to accommodate young people aged 8 to 17, who have emotional and behavioural difficulties. The staff will have extensive training and experience to meet the needs of the young people in placement. The home will operate in full compliance with the Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015, the Quality Standards, and Ofsted’s Social Care Common Inspection Framework.”

“Regarding transport links and the suitability of the area, the Registered Manager will ensure that thorough matching assessments are undertaken prior to each admission. This process will align with their impact risk assessments, location risk assessments, and the individual needs of both the new and existing residents. All staff receive training on the Missing from Care policy and procedures, as well as each young person’s individualised plans.”

“Pollution Control (Air Pollution & Noise): No objections but have recommended the imposition of conditions pertaining to a management scheme (before the use is commenced), and external lighting scheme (before the development is brought into use).”

“West Midlands Police They have recommended the imposition of conditions pertaining to a security plan and management plan.”

“Neither the applicant nor the objector(s) were at the meeting.”

“Following a site visit, members were satisfied with the proposals and were minded to approve the application, subject to the conditions recommended by the Executive Director-Place.”

“Resolved that Planning Application DC/25/70770 – The Roundhouse, Reservoir Passage, Wednesbury WS10 9DH (Proposed change of use from dwellinghouse (Class C3) to residential home for up to four children (under 18 years of age) (Class C2) and use of the existing lodge for one child (under 18 years of age) for a transition unit in preparation for independent living (Class C2)) is approved, subject to the following conditions relating to:-”

“I) site management scheme; II) restrictions of use of the children’s home; III) details of external lighting;”